The Secret Garden

I have been traveling to Highlands, NC for the past 15 years, and I must say that The Secret Garden is hands down the best lunch spot in town. Whether you're looking to grab a quick bite or sit down and enjoy a glass of wine in their cute courtyard, it offers a truly memorable experience.

Now, let's talk about the food. The soups at The Secret Garden are out of this world, and their charcuterie boards are absolutely gorgeous. They also serve the best subs in town, made with high quality ingredients that result in superb flavors. I personally love this place and believe that anyone who says otherwise is simply not well-traveled. Perhaps they should visit Subway to grab a sub instead.

We loved it! A Fun and hip place to relax and enjoy a wonderful meal. The fresh sandwiches are made to order.... and the slow simmered chicken noodle soup 🥣 reminded me why we love soup. We already have plans to meet up twice a week - forever .... at the Secret Garden. Save 3 seats for us!

Amidst the aesthetic extravagance of this small mountain town, where beauty often comes with a hefty price tag, this lunch spot distinguishes itself as a savvy choice. Its allure lies not just in the panoramic surroundings but also in the economical balance it strikes, offering a delightful dining experience without the usual exorbitance.

Ok…I’m a sandwich person. Traveled all over. I think it was The Gobbler…shaved turkey on toasted baguette with havarti dill cheese spread, lettuce, cucumbers, and whatever else she put on it…it was seriously one of the best sandwiches in my 46 years on this planet. It made me choke up. Literally thanked her with tears welling up. Damn sandwich was a spiritual experience. I will go back to Highlands just for that sandwich and a waterfall. We spent lots of $$ eating out in this town over the weekend, all the best spots. This was the best thing I ate all weekend.

Incredible food and service! Wide variety of sandwiches available, plus other unique food gifts. Whether you live around Highlands or are just passing through, the staff here is so welcoming and will make you feel at home!

Amazing food! Hole in the wall but I’m so glad we found it! The Godfather has to be one of the best sandwiches I’ve ever eaten!

Love this Highland's local restaurant! I visit every time I go to Highlands! Rachel always has the freshest ingredients, and the most innovative sandwiches, her soups are incredible and diverse, and her prices can't be beaten for the quality!

I love the intimate atmosphere at The Secret Garden both inside the market and outside on the terrace. I love taking friends and family for lunch and sitting on the patio under the covered umbrellas and just taking in the quiet and friendly nature that Highlands is and always has been.

Thank you, The Secret Garden, for a wonderful experience, as always!

Absolutely loved this sweet spot! Grabbed a sandwich, beer, and muffin to eat in the courtyard. Everything was SO delicious, and real quality. Probably the best lunch we had on our trip! Will definitely be returning.

The Secret Garden Market is a go to for fresh gourmet sandwiches, salads, and soups located in a quiet courtyard off Main Street. You can also find unique gift items, spices, drinks, chips, popcorn, home made oatmeal cream cookies, and delicious pasta salads—to name a few.

Prices are very reasonable and sandwiches are huge! It is nice to have a less expensive chef-prepared lunch rather than trying to find a parking place on Main Street and paying Main Street prices.

Those of us who live and work in Highlands love The Secret Garden. We order take out for work and Rachel has local kids deliver food to businesses on Main Street (weekends and
summer.)

Please remember to “Be Kind” when reviewing a restaurant. I personally helped Rachel for 3 months to make her dream come true.

We support our small businesses ❤
And we love Rachel and The Secret Garden.

My #1 lunch spot in Highlands! Rachel is the BEST. She makes the most delicious soups that are full of flavor and perfect for a fall or winter afternoon. If you're in more of a sandwich mood, I definitely recommend the Hudson any time of the year!

This place is just awesome!! From the owner to the food 💕💕. Not a lot of seating inside, but it’s because it’s packed with hand selected (you can tell) wine, coolers of grab and go, etc. Great outdoor seating in a beautiful courtyard! And if it’s full… Kelsey Hutchinson park is right there with picnic tables and grass area. My favorite sandwich is The Hudson! The prices are great too!

Delicious food and friendly staff. I am a sandwich guy and they did not disappoint. I had the Godfather and my wife had the Hudson. The weather was perfect so we enjoyed our meal under the umbrellas infront of the store. We will definitely be back.

Amazing, healthy and delicious items. The chicken salad was the best I’ve ever had. All I thought about that evening and the afternoon of the next day was going back for more! Today I tried a different sandwich with generous amounts of deli, veggies, avocado, all pressed and warm. There is a variety of snacks, many being gluten and allergy free, and they taste amazing! I’ve tried multiple snacks from her shop and they’re all so flavorful and delicious. There is also a large selection of local treats as well from popsicles to syrups! This is a wonderful little gem with a fantastic vibe and delicious sandwiches. There’s usually a soup of the day too! Very friendly and just overall a great establishment.

I absolutely love this place, the sandwiches are outstanding, the drink selection is great. All the other things they sell are so varied and unique also. Just a great spot, my new favorite lunch place in Highlands.

Great little secret in town - delicious sandwiches and desserts. First thing I had for here was the chicken salad on a croissant, which was delicious … but, what won me over was the homemade oatmeal crème pie - AMAZING.

My veggie pita was excellent. Nice owner and sweet outdoor space for lunch. Thanks so much. Glad you are in Highlands!!

I love this place!! Rachel is Fabulous! I have started eating there every day. For lunch. The food is fresh and very tasty! This is a true “Highland s Hidden Gem”..

Had a delicious turkey, havarti, cucumber sandwich on fresh bread. Nice courtyard right outside for seating. Will definitely be back !

If you need an amazing sandwich, don’t miss this place. Great people and owner run, too.

Rachel & the Gang simply do an outstanding job. Best deli sandwiches on that plateau. Extremely peaceful environment. I will be back!!!